What are demo bindings?

[sheeha35]

Ok, help a sister out. What are Demo bindings? How are they different from "regular" bindings. I found a smoking deal on a pair of skis that I want, but they have demo bindings... is this bad? I mean, I know that allow it to adjust to a lot of different boots and adds some weight, but does it negatively impact the performance of the ski? Can you take the rail out and still use the binding?

The binding is: Atomic 310 4tix Demo Bindings

 

[Kano]

Sheeha --

I don't even begin to claim REAL knowledge -- but my Atomic Sugar Mama's have those bindings. They're working just fine for me!!!

I don't think they've added an outrageous amount of weight -- they're still lighter than my K2 True Luvs that have "non-demo" bindings, and the skis are plenty zippier than the True Luvs too!

(Have I mentioned I sure do luv my Sugar Mamas? First run this year that I found real ice, I said oh holy shicks! and then made the delightful discovery that the ice might as well have been snow! The next time down that run, I didn't worry about the ice patches.)

Enjoy your new Atomic skis with the demo bindings!

Karen in Boise

 

[Jilly]

Demo bindings are almost the same as regular bindings. They are made so that shops can easily adjust them for all types of skiers. Don't worry about them if the deal is good. They are still bindings.

 

[altagirl]

They have a much wider range of adjustment than standard bindings, to allow them to accept any size adult ski boot (obviously with proper adjustment). Because of this they are generally heavier than standard bindings. Some models may also be a little higher than their non-demo counterparts. Overall though, they should be fine.

I would, however, when comparison shopping, give a higher value to regular bindings than demo bindings.

 

[volklgirl]

Ok, help a sister out. What are Demo bindings? How are they different from "regular" bindings. I found a smoking deal on a pair of skis that I want, but they have demo bindings... is this bad? I mean, I know that allow it to adjust to a lot of different boots and adds some weight, but does it negatively impact the performance of the ski?

No. It may be heavier by a bit, but that's it. they're acutally a good thing if you change boots and end up with a different sole length, or you loan your skis out to friends/family.

Can you take the rail out and still use the binding?

No. If the ski has a rail system, you can only reolace that binding with another that fits that rail system. If the ski is just flat with a standard demo binding, you can replace that binding with any standard flat mount binding, but why would you?

The only down side I see to demo bindings is that it makes it easier for theives to use or sell them if they get stolen.